Editorial One
Issue 403, November 1, 2018
Fiji’s President Major General (Retired) Jioji Konusi Konrote has rightly said that the forthcoming general election places the country on the crossroads of democracy and that the choice of the people will define the country’s future,
The quadrennial election, scheduled to be held on November 14, 2018, can shape the direction of the country for several years into the future.
Transparent elections
“So, the importance of our elections cannot be overstated, and, as was the case in 2014, our election will be held in a transparent manner and to the highest international standards. It is not a time for fear, and none of us can tolerate any efforts to sow hatred or division among our people. It is a time for truth, not for lies that damage our economy and degrade our unity; the very fabric of our national life,” he said.
Mr Konrote said that regardless of political differences, the bond of nationhood and common citizenry must always triumph.
When Josaia Voreqe (Frank) Bainimarama took the reins of the Government about 12 years ago, the fate of the country began to change. Even at that time, Fiji was subject to summary dismissal without a just course to defend itself, discard without discussion and adjudication without trial.
Changing attitudes
Happily, the feelings of international animosity are now being replaced by a conciliatory approach, investment offers, financial aid and ‘such help as may be necessary towards normalisation of bilateral relations.’
However, to most Fijians, the moment that would be decisive is at hand and how they conduct themselves over the next two weeks would determine if they are serious about democracy.
